Wildlife Volunteering in Africa

The biggest draw toward Africa for the environmentally inclined likely has something to do with the beautiful animals that reside there.

From tiny monkeys and great apes, like gorillas to the giant African elephant, Africa is home to a truly diverse group of animals. Conservation tourists have many options when it comes to visiting the continent and making a difference.

Organizations, such as the African Conservation Experience, allow tourists to partake in ethical animal tourism while simultaneously positively impacting those same animals. The African Conservation Experience offers tours that last less than two weeks and volunteer experiences for tourists who want to get hands on and help the wildlife.

The group offers multiple experiences that focus on different animals, including rhinos and lions, according to the website. Travelers can also take part in marine conservation efforts, veterinarian volunteer efforts, wildlife care and rehabilitation and more.

Conservation tours differ from safaris in that conservation experiences are typically much more hands-on than safaris. The chance to go to Africa and work with animals for two weeks starts at $2,360. Five-day courses start at $1,590.

“Over the years, the financial support of our travellers has empowered the conservation projects we work with in many different ways. We’ve sponsored new equipment, invested in new facilities and provided interest-free loans to help broaden their impact,” the experience’s website reads.

Volunteering at one of these organizations offers travelers the chance to get up close and personal with animals they would otherwise not have the opportunity to.